Williams’ death puts mental illness into perspective

The passing of one of the most talented performers in history changed my focus for this week’s column. I am writing about Robin Williams.

His body of work for me began with that strange, lovable character, Mork from Ork, in “Mork & Mindy,” and continued until his untimely death.

As I ruminated on and remembered this or that performance of his and watched the emotions roll through social media, I became enlightened and astounded.

Some of my choice memories were Williams as Mork, then as John Keating in “Dead Poets Society” and as Adrian Cronauer in “Good Morning, Vietnam.” Mentions of other roles flew through the electronic ether along with remarks from friends and other sources.

There was “Awakening,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Popeye,” “Moscow on the Hudson” and so many more. There were 80 films in 37 years, including an incredible number of performances. He transcended the comedian label, as he was a genius and an everyman.

As with all of us, there is a time to say goodbye. Williams chose now, and apparently ended his own life. Some have said that Williams was a coward or selfish for taking his own life. I cannot disagree more. Suicide is a horrible way to die. It affects so many. Williams had mental issues and, according to those who know more than us, was caught in the throes of depression.

Bringing this home, we all know people with problems and I hope I never know anyone who finds this to be the only way out. Seeing Williams as an enormously multitalented funny man, I could never know the pain he felt.

It gives me a new perspective on people with issues who I see every day. And I think it allows me to be a little more sympathetic and understanding. If you know someone who is struggling, give them a hug and tell them you are there for them.

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On Aug. 22, the Cochecho Arts Festival will finish up this year’s extremely well received series with country singer/songwriter Ryan Brooks Kelly. The festival has always been successful, but this year’s effort by the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce tops all that has gone before.

This year’s successes augur well for the future. Congratulations to all for a very successful summer.

Also on Aug. 22, the second year of Night at the Museum starts at the Woodman Museum on Central Avenue. You probably have heard about last year’s full houses every night. From 6-9 p.m. on the 22nd, and 3-5 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. on the 23rd and 24th, more than 50 volunteers will be presenting everything from gallows and stocks to Civil War veterans and period politicians. You’ll get to meet a soldier who fought at Gettysburg and Dover’s own Marilla Ricker, who ran for governor even before women could vote.

According to the Woodman website (www.woodmanmuseum.org), “Some call it historical, others call it hysterical.” Don’t miss it as your guides take you through Dover’s past. Tours leave every 15 minutes. Give them a call at 603-742-1038 to reserve your place.

This busy week also offers Theatre Unmasked’s production of “The Last Five Years” at Cara’s Chameleon Club on Aug. 22, 23, 29 and 30. Go for dinner and a show or just the show. The folks are great!

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As I prepared for today’s Dover High School soccer tryouts (I coach junior varsity girls), I thought about an article I read recently about the trials and tribulations of girls/women’s soccer in Afghanistan.

Recently I also had an opportunity to spend time with 28-year-old Dover High graduate Shaneikiah Bickham, who is on her way to Chicago to work on her master’s degree. She just spent three years teaching high school students in Cairo, Egypt. Her comments about the treatment of women there were scary.

I may tell my soccer players that no matter how frustrating it can appear to be growing up female in the United States, we need to compare what we have with many other places in the world.

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Don’t forget the block party I mentioned last week. It is happening at the Morrill Block on Central Avenue between 2nd and 3rd streets. On Thursday, Aug. 21, stores located at the upper square in Dover will have specials ranging from raffles to trunk shows. According to Monia Mann of the Kali Klass boutique, “there will be something for everyone.”

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I close with a quote from one of my favorite Robin Williams movies, “Dead Poets Society.” As teacher John Keating he says, “No matter what anyone tells you, words and ideas can change the world.”